New Delhi (Agency): West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee lashed out at the BJP-ruled Centre on Tuesday, claiming that Prime Minister Narendra Modi, despite speaking of inclusivity, is “attacking” opposition-ruled states. She expressed concern over her party members being targeted by central agencies “without reason.”
During a meeting with Durga Puja organizers, Banerjee announced an increase in the grant-in-aid that the state government offers to Puja committees, raising it to Rs 70,000. She also spoke about the launch of a toll-free anti-ragging helpline in response to the tragic death of a Jadavpur University student after an incident of ragging and sexual harassment.
Banerjee accused central agencies of conducting raids without warrants and proper information, breaking into homes without witnesses, and interfering in people’s private lives. She characterized the actions as a “political vendetta” happening in Bengal.
Addressing the media reports that central probe agencies had raided her residence, she denied the claim and further stated that the central agencies could go anywhere they felt like but criticized their interference in personal lives.
Mamata Banerjee’s allegations come in the wake of recent raids by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in Kolkata concerning a school jobs scam. Several members of her party are currently in ED or CBI custody in different cases related to alleged corruption.
Banerjee also announced initiatives related to the upcoming Durga Puja festival, including reduced electricity bills for Puja committees and exemption from taxes on advertisements. “This year, we will hold the Durga Puja carnival on October 27. We will host it in a big way,” she added.
The toll-free anti-ragging helpline number 1800-345-5678 was activated on Tuesday to address ragging complaints in all educational institutions across West Bengal. Banerjee reassured that the identities and phone numbers of those reporting ragging would remain confidential.
Furthermore, she explained the rationale behind the grants to Durga Puja committees, stating that they promote the state’s development schemes, and emphasized that the intention is not to “buy them.”
The latest announcements and statements by Mamata Banerjee reflect ongoing tensions between the West Bengal state government and the Centre. They also underscore her commitment to address local cultural traditions and social concerns, such as ragging in educational institutions, within her jurisdiction.
